"But we just thought that Raphael still needed us to be happy and cheerful, to give him our support."

Although Raphael's condition gradually improved, there were a series of scares along the way.

Mr Wahjudi has watched his son's body turn blue and lifeless for a minute or two - a result of holding his breath. Doctors told Mr Wahjudi it was due to Raphael's chronic lung disease from long ventilator use.

CARE

Today, Mr Wahjudi and his wife monitor their son, who is on oxygen support, closely to make sure his oxygen levels do not dip to dangerous levels.

His wife quit her job to look after Raphael full-time.

Initial tests hint at gaps in the boy's development.

His first hearing test, for instance, indicates a degree of hearing loss, but will require further confirmation tests.

Raphael, who has grown up being tube-fed, is having difficulty swallowing milk too.

The focus for Mr Wahjudi and his wife is to make sure Raphael does not fall sick.

"It's a new beginning for all of us, but I know that our journey is not finished yet. At least Raphael is home and happy, and that's quite a big feat," he said.